A powerful suicide bombing on Monday ripped through a mosque frequented by police officers in a highly secured part of the city of Peshawar. Killing at least 40 people and wounding nearly 150. Officials said it was the worst terrorist attack in the country in months.
More than 40 people have been killed and about 150 others wounded in a suicide bomb attack targeting police at a mosque in the northwestern Pakistani city of Peshawar, according to officials. The mosque is within Peshawar’s Police Lines, which is part of the city’s red zone. Where several important government installations are, including the Chief Minister House, Governor House, and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial assembly building. This terrorist attack is another attempt to defame Islam.
Shahid Ali, a policeman who survived the attack, said the explosion took place seconds after the prayers started. “I saw black smoke rising to the sky. I ran out to save my life,” the 47-year-old expressed his feelings. The screams of the people are still echoing in my mind,” he added. “People were screaming for help.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the bombing in a statement and ordered authorities to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the victims. He promised “stern action” against those behind the attack.
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter to condemn the attack. “Strongly condemn the terrorist suicide attack in police lines mosque Peshawar during prayers,” he tweeted. “It is imperative we improve our intelligence gathering and properly equip our police forces to combat the growing threat of terrorism.”
Also See: An earthquake of 6.3 magnitude hits Islamabad
Lady Reading Hospital has declared an emergency and they were still receiving those injured. An emergency has been imposed in the locality and the area has been cordoned off. “An emergency has been imposed at hospitals across the city and injured persons are being provided the best medical facilities,” Peshawar Commissioner Riaz Mehsood was quoted as. Meanwhile, following the blast in Peshawar, Islamabad Police issued directions for a “security high-alert”.
